2006 Yamaha FZ1 Photos

The geezer sportbike gets sharper in 2006, with more power, a stiffer chassis and bolder styling. See what we thought of the bike after our 2006 Yamaha FZ1 First Ride.

A wide handlebar and steeper steering rake results in athletic agility, underpinned by a stiffer chassis that never lets it get out of shape.

2006 Yamaha FZ1

Yamaha flew us over to Jolly Olde England to test the FZ1. Uh, actually, this was taken in 'sunny' California.

Exiting a corner at about 55 mph plus a tug at the bars gets a mildly crossed-up wheelie.

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

Did we say the FZ1 doesn't like to wheelie? I'll find a way...

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

The FZ1's fairing, though not especially large, provides useful protection from the elements. A taller accessory windscreen from Yamaha is in the works, as are a chin spoiler and different seats and handlebars.

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

Style, power and grace - the FZ1 serves it up in a stunning and relatively inexpensive package.

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

The Liquid Silver FZ1 at dust - is there a better looking near-naked bike?

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

Somewhere between sportbike and sport-tourer, appealing to young commuters and old racers, and costing less than an R6, the FZ1 cuts a wide demographic swath.

As you'd expect from the R1-sourced motor, this thing rips in the upper part of the rev band.

2006 Yamaha FZ1 - First Ride

A wide handlebar and steeper steering rake results in athletic agility, underpinned by a stiffer chassis that never lets it get out of shape.

The 2006 FZ1 has a familiar face, but it's actually new from the ground up.

It's days like this that make journalism school and low salaries worthwhile.

'An R1 for the real world' was the tagline for the old bike, and it holds true today.

A steeper rake for '06 allows the FZ1 to be chucked into corners easier than before.

Somewhere near Point Reyes, California - paradise when it's not raining.

A fatter rear tire, inverted fork, and fresher styling liven up a popular machine.